As we approach the 250th anniversary of our nation's independence in 1776, the temptation rises to focus on the year's military engagement -- but its most significant events occurred off the battlefield.

This is read by an automated voice. Please report any issues or inconsistencies here. As we approach the 250th anniversary of our nation's independence in 1776, the temptation rises to focus on the year's military engagement -- but its most significant events occurred off the battlefield.

Recently Ken Burn's wondrous PBS series, the "American Revolution" became the 10 most streamed programs of all time according to Yahoo.